A Stop 'N' Swap last year in the St. George Library brought out many community members who dropped off their unwanted items and picked up new things. Another event will be held Saturday, at Christ Church in New Brighton.Staten Island Advance

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Out with the old, in with the new.

The holiday season -- in addition to being a time for family, feasting and the usual glut of presents -- offers the opportunity for reflection and renewal: Cleaning out your home to prepare for guests, and searching for that perfect table centerpiece or outfit to wear when they arrive.

A "Stop 'N' Swap" to be held Saturday from 12 to 3 p.m. at Christ Church in New Brighton, will give the community the chance to find new homes for their outgrown or unwanted things and pick up some new, needed or surprising items, all while connecting with neighbors.

And all for free.

"Stop
'N' Swaps help build community by creating an opportunity to come out and meet
the neighbors," said the Marcel Van Ooyen, the executive director of GrowNYC, which is hosting the event. "They're also
a great way for residents to find things they need without having to pay while
also reducing the amount of garbage that NYC generates."

The public is invited to bring clean, portable, reusable items to share with those
who can use them.

No one is required to bring something to take
something -- you may show up with a bag and see what's free for the taking.

Books, toys, fashionable clothing, housewares, tools, and electronics are just
some of the things people bring. Furniture and other large items not accepted.

"Stop 'N' Swaps
prevent waste and pollution that is created by manufacturing, packaging and
transporting new things that we may only use for a short time," said David Hurd
Director of GrowNYC's Office of Recycling Outreach and Education. "Recycling
everyday is a must, and reducing waste and reusing items is even better, as
waste is prevented at no cost."

Christ Church is located at 76 Franklin Ave. between Fillmore Street and Cassidy Place.